Three Gorges Dam

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Spot Introduction

The Three Gorges Dam is the world’s largest water conservancy project and a significant landmark of New China’s construction. It not only showcases China’s engineering achievements but also serves as an important window to understand the natural beauty of the Three Gorges of the Yangtze River.

Located in the middle section of Xiling Gorge, one of the Three Gorges of the Yangtze River, the construction of the Three Gorges Dam began in 1994 and was fully completed in 2006. With a total length of 2,309 meters and a crest elevation of 185 meters, the dam has a normal water level of 175 meters, a total storage capacity of 39.3 billion cubic meters, and an installed capacity of 22.5 million kilowatts. It generates over 100 billion kilowatt-hours of electricity annually, making it the world’s largest hydropower station.

As a century-old project, the Three Gorges Dam has set multiple world records, including the largest concrete gravity dam, the largest hydropower station, and the largest navigation lock system. The dam was constructed using a “one-stage development, one-time completion, phased water storage, and continuous resettlement” plan, which took 17 years to complete. The total investment in the project exceeded 200 billion yuan, and the total number of immigrants exceeded 1.3 million.

The dam not only provides comprehensive benefits such as flood control, power generation, and shipping but is also a unique tourist attraction. Standing on the 185-meter-high crest of the dam, visitors can overlook the magnificent scenery of the Yangtze River and experience the majestic atmosphere of the “high gorge turning into a plain lake.” The dam’s five-stage navigation lock system is a remarkable engineering feat, and the process of ships passing through the locks is breathtaking.

The Three Gorges Dam scenic area also features multiple observation points. Tanziling offers a panoramic view of the entire dam, while the 185 viewing platform provides the best spot for close-up views of the navigation locks. The Three Gorges Exhibition Hall displays the journey and achievements of the project’s construction. This place is not only a window into China’s modern engineering technology but also an excellent destination to experience the natural and cultural charm of the Three Gorges of the Yangtze River.

Must-visit Attractions

  1. Tanziling Observation Point

    • Panoramic view of the dam
    • Science Popularization Exhibition Hall
    • Suggested visiting time: 90 minutes

  2. 185 Observation Platform

    • Overlooking the ship lock
    • The best spot for sightseeing
    • Suggested visiting time: 60 minutes

  3. Three Gorges Dam Exhibition Hall

    • Project exhibition
    • Historical changes
    • Suggested visiting time: 60 minutes

  4. Ship Lift Observation Point

    • Engineering wonder
    • Ship lifting
    • Suggested visiting time: 45 minutes

Visiting Suggestions

  1. Best Touring Route

    • Morning: Tanziling - Exhibition Hall
    • Afternoon: 185 Platform - Ship Lift
    • It is recommended to overlook from a high place

  2. Visiting Schedule

    • Watch the ship lock in the morning
    • Visit the exhibition at noon
    • Enjoy the panoramic view in the afternoon

  3. Practical Tips

    • Bring a telescope
    • Take sun protection measures
    • Wear comfortable shoes

Transportation Guide

  • Airplane: Yichang Sanxia Airport
  • Train: Yichang East Station
  • Automobile: Yichang Long-distance Passenger Station
  • Scenic Area Transportation: Dedicated tourist bus
  1. Yichang Fish Cake
  2. Sanxia Fish Feast
  3. Badong Bean Skin
  4. Yichang Mianwo

Special Reminders

  1. Bring ID card
  2. Pay attention to sun protection
  3. Avoid rainy days
  4. Bring a telescope
  5. Obey regulations
  6. Gather on time
  7. Avoid holidays
  8. Book tickets ahead of time.